Pregnancy is the period during which a fetus develops inside the uterus of a woman or person who is assigned female at birth (AFAB). This process supports the growth of new life through significant physiological and hormonal changes in the body. A full-term pregnancy typically lasts about 40 weeks, divided into three trimesters, each marked by distinct developmental milestones. Comprehensive medical care is fundamental throughout this time, as there are many changes in health that must be monitored. Here’s more information on pregnancy tests and screenings to expect at different stages:
Prenatal Services
Prenatal care involves a series of regular check-ups to assess the well-being of the pregnant parent and the developing fetus. These services prepare people for pregnancy through regular obstetric visits to detect potential complications early and provide patient education. Obstetric care is a specialized field of medicine focused on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. An obstetrician is a physician who manages the health of the pregnant individual and the fetus. Obstetricians, or OB/GYNs, specialize in pregnancy, childbirth, and reproductive health and are often the go-to experts for pregnancy care. This care includes routine appointments, various screenings and tests, and management of any health conditions that may arise.
Pelvic Exams and Pap Tests
At an early prenatal visit, an OB/GYN typically performs a pelvic exam to assess the health of the pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and cervix. A Pap test, or Pap smear, may also be conducted during this exam if one is due. This test involves collecting cells from the cervix to screen for cervical cancer and other cellular abnormalities. These initial examinations establish your health baseline and help identify any issues that might need attention during the pregnancy.
Prenatal Screenings
Your provider will monitor factors like blood pressure, weight, and fetal growth, and they offer guidance on nutrition and lifestyle. Throughout pregnancy, a variety of screenings are offered to assess the health of the fetus and screen for certain conditions, including:
- Blood Tests: Used to check for anemia, blood type, Rh factor, and immunity to diseases like rubella.
- Urine Tests: Used to check for signs of infection or conditions like preeclampsia.
- Ultrasounds: These provide detailed images that help assess fetal development, check for abnormalities, measure amniotic fluid levels, and monitor the baby’s position, all of which are fundamental for planning a safe delivery.
Providers offer screenings for genetic and chromosomal conditions, which may include blood tests and ultrasounds to assess fetal development.
During Birth Services
Specialists use ultrasounds, blood tests, and urinalysis as key tools to monitor the health and progress of pregnancy, helping the pregnant parent and the developing baby receive comprehensive care. Together, these diagnostic methods allow for timely interventions and tailored care, prioritizing a safe and healthy outcome for the parent and child. As the end of the pregnancy approaches, care shifts to focus on labor and delivery.
During-birth services, often provided in a hospital or birthing center, involve monitoring the progress of labor and the health of both the pregnant individual and the baby. Continuous or intermittent fetal heart rate monitoring may be used, and pain management options are available. The medical team supports the birthing process, prepared to manage the delivery and address any complications that may occur to enable a safe delivery.
Post-partum Services
Postpartum care begins immediately after delivery and continues for several weeks. This period is fundamental for recovery from childbirth, and it involves managing physical changes as the body returns to its non-pregnant state. A comprehensive postpartum check-up is usually scheduled around six weeks after delivery. During this visit, a provider assesses physical healing, screens for postpartum depression, and discusses topics like contraception and infant care. When health concerns arise, providers can work with specialists to coordinate to develop treatment plans.
Learn More About Pregnancy Services
Pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period involve a structured series of medical services that support health and safety. From initial consultations and screenings to care during delivery and after, each stage is guided by specific medical protocols. Consulting a healthcare provider is the first step to determining what can benefit you, and an OB-GYN practice can help. Contact an OB-GYN clinic to schedule an appointment and benefit from care that’s tailored to your needs.
